Jill Soloway and Tim League To Deliver Keynote Addresses At 10th Annual Film Independent Forum

Jill Soloway and Tim League To Deliver Keynote Addresses At 10th Annual Film Independent Forum

Film Independent, which kicks off its 10th annual forum on October 24, has just announced its two keynote speakers. Writer and director Jill Soloway (“Transparent,” “Afternoon Delight,” “United States of Tara,” “Six Feet Under”) will deliver the opening filmmaker keynote on October 25. Following Soloway will be Tim League, founder and chief executive officer of the Alamo Drafthouse Cinema, Drafthouse Films and Fantastic Fest, who will give the executive keynote address the next day on October 26.

Jill Soloway spoke to Film Independent, saying “My goal as an artist has always been to privilege the other, to make the object the subject. Filmmaking provides the ideal opportunity to reverse the polarity around the seer and the seen. I’m so excited to share my ideas about how to make the kind of art that changes the world by captivating and illuminating authentic feelings.”

Equally honored to be selected, Tim League said, “We’re in an era of tremendous change but equally tremendous opportunity as new means of digital distribution arise. I look forward to a great conversation about emerging techniques, platforms, opportunities and pitfalls.”

The two speakers are each breaking convention in their field — Soloway’s work is paving the way for filmmakers to share their stories via new innovative platforms, while League is providing new distribution channels for provocative independent films. Film Independent Senior Director of Education, Maria Raquel Bozzi said “The Forum has always been at the forefront of identifying and disseminating new trends in the industry, as well as best practices for filmmakers making and selling their work.” This year’s speaker selections compliment the Forum’s goal of bringing attention to the creative advancement of the independent film industry.

Film Independent, also responsible for the production of the Film Independent Spirit Awards and Los Angeles Film Festival, will be adding new features to its forum, including a “hackathon.” This competition will allow filmmakers and developers to create a new technology prototype focused on social impact. Learn more here. The forum will also be distributing the Sloan Producers Grant, which provides a $30,000 production grant and acceptance into Film Independent’s Producing Lab, and will be awarded to a Film Independent Fellow developing a narrative film with a scientific, mathematical and/or technological theme.

Early registration conference passes are $215 for Film Independent members and $285 for non-members who register by Friday, September 19. After September 19, conference passes are $275 for Film Independent members and $325 for non-members. For more information about this year’s Film Independent Forum or to purchase a pass, visit filmindependent.org/forum or call 310-432-1222.